Definitely dont use commercial abrasive cleaning products or solvents either. Vinegar is commonly used to clean tubs because its acidic properties soften soap scum, allowing it to be easily brushed away. Lemon water 6. Put on protective gloves before handling any bleach solution, as this will protect your skin from any splashes or spills that may occur during the cleaning process. Mix an ounce in a gallon of water and scrub with a sponge or plastic scrubbing pad. After you've used your usual bathroom cleaner on your plastic tub, you may wish to do a second cleanse using white vinegar. Victorian Plumbing recommends mixing 100 ml of vinegar with 30 ml of lemon juice and half a cup of baking soda to form a paste. Step 3. The whiting and wax fill scratches and whiten the surround. Acrylic bathtubs are typically available in a wider variety of colors than fiberglass bathtubs, which are typically only available in white. Alternative cleaning products suitable for use on a plastic tub surround include dish soap, white vinegar and household bleach. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. After you've removed any grime and mineral deposits from your tub, you should have it looking shiny and new. Spray purified or ordinary tap water onto the cleaning powder. This will help loosen the dirt and grime before you clean the tub. Allow the vinegar to sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing it away with a microfiber cloth or soft sponge. Cleaning products vary considerably in their ingredients even from the same brand, so just be sure to double-check before using these products on plastic. It is not required to replace the tub surround since it is expensive to do so, and unless you need or want to spend that sort of money, you should not replace the tub surround. Allow the vinegar to be absorbed by the deposits and scum for fifteen minutes. Finish by rinsing the bathtub completely. There are so many brands available in the market. Spread out a drop cloth over the tub, floor, and fixtures. Drain and pat dry. To avoid the accumulation of soap scum and dirt, clean the shower once per week with a gentle cleaner and water. Lemon remains to be an excellent natural cleaner. Simply combine an answer consisting of half water and half white vinegar in a spray container that has been left unfilled. Hand sanitizer 7. Once ready, soak a microfiber cloth within this solution before scrubbing the plastic tub surrounding it gently. Gently spray the tub and shower walls so that all surfaces are covered with the bathroom cleaner. You don't necessarily need to rule out use of enamel or fiberglass tub cleaner and polish nor heavy-duty bathtub cleaners, as there's a chance they are safe to use on plastic too. Your email address will not be published. The Process of Cleaning Your Shower The Grime on the Tray. How To Clean Plastic Tub Surround: 6 DIY Methods [Effective]. The walls of the shower should be sprayed with the vinegar and water cleaning, and a suitable amount should be applied.Give the solution at least half an hour to take effect before interrupting it.Leave it alone for up to an hour in order to remove more stubborn hard water stains and soap scum accumulation. Rinse away all traces of bleach residue using clean water after each application until all stains are gone. You can repeat this process as often as needed until your tub is shiny and sparkling clean. Although it can be tempting to use an abrasive scrubber, Delta Faucet explains that they can cause lasting damage to the plastic. Spread baking soda or a gentle cleaning agent over the entirety of the bathtub, then wait anywhere from five to ten minutes for it to take effect. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Spray . Your email address will not be published. 6 Tips: How to Dispose of Fireworks Like a Pro! [1] Avoid abrasive cleansers like scouring powders. It's downright impossible to enjoy a nice bath when you can see dirt, soap scum, and other types of stains in your tub, and if left unchecked, bacteria in your plastic bathtub can lead to health concerns. How to Clean Plastic Bathtub: 9 Simple Method - World Sustainable Remember, Its important to know the right way of using chemicals. The piece of plastic should be placed inside the container. Step 3 Wet a cleaning sponge with vinegar. Your email address will not be published. Once clean, a thin coat of either cream peroxide or tartar should be applied evenly to the entire surface of the plastic. Step 4. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. How do you whiten plastic shower walls? Acetone or turpentine. Rinse and wipe clean after 30 minutes or an hour after applying the paste. How to Clean the Surround of a Plastic Bathtub When cleaning a plastic tub surround with a commercial cleaner, it is important to follow the manufacturers instructions. Step 1. If there are stains, you might not know what can remove them. Applying the paste to the yellowed surroundings will help. Less than $20 Step 1: Remove the old caulk and clean the joint Photo 1: Loosen the old caulk Push a razor scraper in all the way under both edges of the old caulk bead to release its grip. These scuff marks are difficult to repair and could end up making your bathroom look even dirtier. Mild dish soap can also be used to clean the plastic tub surround as it is gentle yet effective for removing dirt and grime. Your email address will not be published. Cleaning a plastic bathtub is a different process than cleaning a porcelain or fiberglass tub. Wait until the plastic tub surround is completely dry before you start using it again. This will almost certainly cause scratches and other damage to your tub. This is a simple, non-toxic way to clean and preserve your acrylic tubs and shower.You can do it by yourself, but we are happy to help!Call anytime for an estimate: 1-866-252-3241---With same day service and 25 years of experience, you can have confidence the job will be done correctly.If you need plumbing, water damage restoration, HVAC repair, sewer \u0026 drain cleaning, or mold removal \u0026 remediationCall the Twin Home Experts.WE GUARANTEE OUR WORK!Let's Connect!Website: https://www.twinplumbing.com/Blog: https://www.twinplumbing.com/blog/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twinhomeexperts/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetwinhomeexperts/ 6. Its important to wear the proper safety equipment when cleaning with a chemical in a plastic tub in order to protect yourself from potential damage. Warm up around 100 milliliters of white vinegar in the microwave until it is hot. Wet a clean cloth with the soapy solution and use it to wash your newly whitened tub surround. How to Remove Yellowing From Plastic Bathtubs | Hunker After that, spray the solution over the glass door of your shower and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Rub this paste into the stains and give it about half an hour to take effect. Most important, you should never use chemicals or abrasive materials on acrylic plastic. 8 Best Tub Surrounds 2022 - Organize Your Bathtub Walls - Lueliving The soapy solution will remove the hydrogen peroxide and laundry booster solution from the plastic. By emptying the tub first, you will be able to access all the corners of your bathtub and clean it thoroughly. Here you will learn more about how to clean a plastic bathtub. Diluted bleach is another great option for cleaning bathtub surrounds. Required fields are marked *. There are a variety of commercial bathroom cleaners that are suitable for use on vinyl tub enclosures, including dish soap, laundry detergent, soft gel or cream cleansers that are not abrasive, and many others. The dirt caused by these chemicals and treatments could stick to the tub and become a permanent stain. If required, carry out the procedure once more until the stain is removed. Abrasive cleaners include any commercial products that are not clearly labeled "nonabrasive" or as safe for acrylic or plastic as well as DIY cleaners, such as baking soda scrubs. Step 1. Plastic tub surrounds usually wipe clean easily because they feature a smooth surface with no grout lines to collect dirt. How to Restore Shine to Plastic Bathtubs and Shower Enclosures You can also wet a clean sponge or washcloth and use it to rub in the cleaner until it thickens. Step 1 - Remove Excess Dirt From Fiberglass. Make a thick paste of baking soda similar to peanut butter or toothpaste consistency. How to Clean Your Surround Tub and Make it Shine! - YouTube Once you're satisfied your tub is as clean as possible, you can work on removing mineral buildup, which masks shine. Repeat as many times as required to completely remove the stain. Apply this paste to the affected areas of your tub or shower enclosure and then leave it for around an hour to really work at the limescale. How to Whiten a Yellowed Plastic Tub Surround - Pinterest With your fingers or a clean, soft cloth, apply the baking soda paste over the greasy surfaces. Commercial all-purpose cleaners are typically safe to use on plastic tub surrounds as they are formulated specifically for this purpose. To clean your tub, start by flushing it out with hot water. How to clean plastic bathtub is an ordinary problem in your bathroom. To loosen grime and remove oils from the skin, scrub the entire bathtub with the soapy nylon sponge. Your email address will not be published. The first step in restoring plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures has to be a deep clean. Their caustic nature could damage the surface or, even worse, cause etching if contact with the skin occurs. The most recent accessory to be added to your collection of tools for cleaning glass is Mr. How To Paint a Tub & Shower Surround | BEFORE & AFTER FIBERGLASS REFINISHING @DIYPowerCouple Subscribe for more DIY! Surrounds only require waxing twice a year to look good. Do you have a bathtub that is discolored and stained? You might let the vinegar or bleach sit on the surfaces for 15 or more minutes before scrubbing and rinsing for extra cleansing power. Overstock recommends mixing a solution of equal parts vinegar and water and using a spray bottle to apply it all over your plastic bathroom fitting. Baking soda has strong de-greasing properties that can be used to clean oil or grease stains. Why Is There A Plastic Ball In A Guinness Can? By staying on top of your cleaning regimen, you can prolong the time in between deep cleans too. Hydrogen peroxide produced more oxygen than plain water does, which is why its often used to unclog drains and toilets. Scrub the surround with the baking soda and brush. Rinse off any remaining residue with fresh water. Scrub the baking soda into the bathtub and faucets with a moist cloth or sponge, Make use of a bristle brush to collect debris in the crevices and along the borders of the bathtub, We strongly suggest that you clean your acrylic bathing product that was manufactured using Delta ProCrylic or Acrylic with Innovex Technology with non-abrasive soaps and detergents, such as: Dishwashing detergent, Cleaner for the bathroom and kitchen by CLR. When you are cleaning, you should make use of a sponge or towel that is not abrasive. Spray the lemon water on the tub and leave it there until evening, or for a whole night. Dish soap is an effective and affordable way to clean light soap scum and dirt from a plastic tub surround. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Your email address will not be published. Spray the floor of the cage after beginning at the top and working your way down. Be sure to choose soft clothes such as microfiber cloth or terry towels for best results. Allow the mixture to dissolve. The bubbles will loosen any dirt and grime. Good Housekeeping recommends using something like Tilex Shower Spray daily to help keep your tub looking shiny and prevent any buildup of soap scum or mineral deposits. Step 4. Solvents, which you should never use on plastic tub surrounds, include mineral spirits, turpentine and acetone. Step 1. Let the vinegar stay on the tub for about 30 minutes. With the addition of moisture, the powder will take on a thick, foamy consistency. The use of a magic eraser, according to a number of individuals, is the only approach that is capable of effectively cleaning a fiberglass shower. 5 Step 5. Put two tablespoons of dish soap and a half gallon of hot water in your bucket, and then fill the bucket with hot water. But over time, plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures can start to look dull and dirty. All-purpose household or bathroom cleaner. Scrub all of the surfaces of the bathtub using a scrub sponge or a stiff nylon brush that has been dipped in the bucket. This makes them feel rather uninviting and can give your entire bathroom an old, worn-out vibe. Then, take an old toothbrush (or whatever your preferred brush is), and scrub the sides of your bathtub. Start by spraying your cleaner directly onto the affected area of the plastic tub surround. Instead, use a cleaner designed specifically for tubs and tiles if the tub is really grimy. However, the plastic, which is actually a reinforced plastic fiberglass composite, can develop yellowing as it ages. Mix baking soda with water to make the paste, then sprinkle it into the bathtub especially in the stained area. 6. Homemade cleansers, such as a combination of baking soda and water or trisodium phosphate and water, are another option that does not pose any health risks. Required fields are marked *. Its effective at removing grease and grime without harsh chemicals. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Chlorine is very harmful if its not handled properly. Allow it to sit for several minutes to allow it to absorb any dirt or grime present on its surface. To erase stains on the plastic that were created by dye, paint, or pigments, wipe these solvents over the surface with a soft cloth. Simply fill the tub with equal parts water and vinegar and allow this solution to sit for at least 15 minutes. In particular, it could be used to remove mildew from plastic bathtubs. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. Then, rinse clean with hot water. How to Clean a Really Dirty Plastic Bathtub | Hunker Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. How To Clean Plastic Shower Surround? - Nationwide Plastics Wait 15 minutes for the chlorine to work on the stain. It will be easier to remove the stain if you give the plastic time to soak in the sunlight. These directions will typically instruct you to spray or wipe the product generously over the surfaces, then let it sit for a certain amount of time before rinsing it off with water. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents on a plastic tub surround, as they can permanently damage it. Step 3. More things Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Step 2 - Venitlate room. However, over time due to everyday use, bathtubs can get dirty and stained. Soft rags or scrubbers may also be used as needed but should only do so if absolutely necessary- these tools can leave scratches if not handled properly so caution should be taken when using them for tough stains or debris. When you're applying the bead, use a constant, steady speed to avoid an uneven finish. 3 Ways to Clean an Acrylic Tub - wikiHow The third step is to spray the mixture. Rinse multiple times and wipe completely to prevent streaks. Yellowed plastic can be whitened by using cream peroxide or tartar. Vinegar will not damage a plastic tub surround when used for cleaning purposes. You can resurface plastic by using specialized products designed specifically for this purpose. Irregular cleaning, chemical cleaners or a scratched, dull surface all can make the yellowing more severe. Wipe gently and slowly and dont apply pressure or use any sharp and hard objects and materials to rub the tub. How To Clean Plastic Tub Surround: 6 DIY Methods [Effective] Step 2. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Step 8. Chlorine 3. Vinegar that has been distilled. Cleaning a plastic tub surround is never easy because one wrong move and your shiny new bathtub could look worse with scratches. Give your plastic tub enclosures a sparkling clean finish with vinegar. The acidic content in lemon water actually cleans the tub most effectively; also, the anti-bacterial property of lemon juice prevents unpleasant odor after cleaning. Here's how to clean a plastic bathtub using a few tried-and-true methods and ingredients. Finally, flush it with water to get rid of any residue left by the acid in the lemon. Combine baking soda and water to create a paste similar in consistency to toothpaste. To begin this process, you will need to prepare the mixture by combining one part vinegar and one part baking soda together in a bowl. 2 Step 2. How to Clean a Fiberglass Tub Surround | DoItYourself.com Alcohol 2. Flush the area with water after youre done. Luckily, this too is a problem that can be tackled with simple white vinegar. Moisten the eraser sponge with hot water and scrub. 10 Effective Tips: How to Remove Yellow Stains from Shoes, 8 Safe Ways: How to Dispose of Fragrance Oils. How to Clean a Glass Coffee Pot: 7 Simple Tips! Hydrogen peroxide whitens your tub, and it will also bleach fabric. Vinegar is an all-purpose cleaner that can easily eliminate dirt, grime, hard water stains, and odors. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Despite pricey natural stone or tile with difficult-to-clean grout lines, Acrylic has a smooth surface that complements any look and feels and is easy to clean. The use of a paste made of dish soap and baking soda, which should be kept on the stain for at least an hour before being washed out with vinegar and hot water, is recommended by a number of specialists. Dish soap is another effective cleaning solution for your plastic bathtub. By emptying your bathtub first, youll be able to see the stains clearly, so you will know what areas to scrub harder. Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste. It will be easier to remove the stain if you give the plastic time to soak in the sunlight. Alternatively, use a nonabrasive tub and shower cleaner. After waiting an hour, use a towel or sponge to massage the area. 2 Step 2. Either spray white vinegar all over the tub surround with a spray bottle or soak a cloth in the vinegar, then rub it over the surfaces of the tub before washing it out. Apply the paste to the stained area and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. Utilizing Peroxide to Restore the Original Color of Yellowed Plastic A container should be filled with straight peroxide. Sometimes, chemicals and other treatments will be added to the water in order to help with the cleaning process and help treat injuries and wounds. Melamine Sponges: As for melamine sponges, while their softness prevents them from causing deep scratches like steel wool does. How to Clean Vinyl Tub Enclosures | Home Guides | SF Gate Rub the paste over the yellowed surround. They can be directly applied to the surfaces of tubs and shower enclosures composed primarily of plastics such as acrylics and polymers. You should use soft cloths such as microfiber or terry towels, sponges, or rags when cleaning a plastic tub enclosure. Scrub clean with a rag. How to whiten a yellowed plastic tub surround | eHow UK Rinse the soiled sponge in the water many times throughout the cleaning process to avoid spreading dirt back onto the bathtub. In fact, white vinegar is often used as an all-natural cleaner for removing mildew from surfaces like bathtubs and shower surrounds made of plastic materials. How to Whiten a Yellowed Plastic Tub Surround - SFGATE Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The chemical reaction will continue until the stain is almost entirely gone. Create a bleach solution by mixing two tablespoons of bleach into two cups of water in a bowl or bucket. 3 Remedies for Yellowing Bathtubs in a Mobile Home Step 4. How To Clean Acrylic Tubs And Shower Walls - YouTube They will come to your home and give it a quick thorough cleaning! The resulting solution should then be stirred with a spoon until it is completely blended together. Once done, wash away any remaining substance with clean water. Two different BKF products are used by our supporters to remove stains from the plastic containers they use.The traditional powder cleaner known as Bar Keepers Friend, as well as our MORE Spray + Foam.A recent study at a science fair demonstrated that BKF materials are safe to use on a variety of surfaces; nevertheless, it is important to note that both compounds have the potential to etch or dull some plastics. Oven cleaner: let sit for one hour. Step 3. How to Clean and Restore Shine to a Fiberglass Tub | Hunker Required fields are marked *. On the other hand, as time passes, the plastic, which is in reality a composite made of reinforced plastic and fiberglass, might turn yellow. How to Clean Your Surround Tub and Make it Shine! Baking soda paste is also an excellent choice for cleaning a plastic tub surround. The piece of plastic should be placed inside the container. How to Whiten Plastic or Fiberglass Tubs & Showers | Hunker Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste.